how can I treat poison ivy..the itching is killing me?
Question:
Answers:
Poison ivy, oak, or Sumac can be really irritating and sometimes painful to deal with. Especially if you are allergic or very sensitive to the oils in these plants.
Some of the best advise I can give on that topic has to do with treating the oils from the plant that have already been absorbed into your skin, drying out the affected areas and the basic preventative measures to make sure you don't spread the rash.
The most important first step in treatment is to thoroughly wash the area with a dish soap. Something with antibacterial, bleach or just regular dish soap will help to draw out the oils from the plant that have been absorbed in the skin. Another helpful hint to drawing out the oils that cause the itchy rash are soaks in a tub of salted water (basin or sink if possible), epsom salt usually disolves best. Then, rinse with the dishsoap shower immediately after. These rinses and showers should be done 2-4 times per day.
Allow skin to dry throughly- trying to avoid rubbing or toweling off the affected area. Avoid touching, scratching, rubbing, popping of small blisters caused by the rash. Follow this by making a 'paste' of baking soda and water.
Apply this paste using disposable gloves and cotton balls. Dispose in an out of reach area after application. Allow paste to dry throughly, rinse off and apply calamine lotion, or a Zinc Oxide based ointment. Products like Zanfel or TechNu are also popular remedies to ease the itch, spread and pain of poison ivy.
I would also suggest daily changing/washing of bedding, towels and all clothing that may come in to contact with the affected area. Place items to be laundered in plastic bags and use arm and hammer baking soda based detergent to launder the items SEPARATE from other laundry. Drying the garments on a higher heat setting is also suggested. (check clothing care labels) . A spray product such as Lysol or another disinfectant spray should be used around the home, car, any areas that you may have touched after touching the rash to prevent spread.
Finally, a dose of vitamin c twice per day and flushing the body with plenty of fluids, foods high in natural enzymes (such as yogurt), will help to cleanse the poison from your skin and body. Remember not to expose yourself to climates that are too warm, the idea is to dry the rash as much as possible. Sleeping in a cool environment, keeping fingernails and hands covered or gloved (to avoid night time clawing at the rash) are also helpful.
Remember to wash your hands and use a hand sanitizer before and after any bathroom use. This will help to avoid spreading the rash to these areas as well (a common mistake with those suffering from poison ivy, oak and sumac).
Finally, if you seem to have any serious spreading, prolonged itching, burning or any signs of severe swelling- contact a doctor immediately! I hope you find some of this advice helpful. Feel better soon!
CALAMINE LOTION & BENEDRIL.
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